Dan Brown: The Lost SymbolHis newest novel is full of spiritual truths, historical facts, and information about our nation's forefathers, many of whom were members of the Masons. An exciting story even if there are some gaps in logic that left me shaking my head. He's not the best writer, but he does a lot of research into his subject matter.

Patricia Panahi: God Outside the Box: A Story of Breaking FreeI enjoyed Patricia's book and related to her spiritual quest and exploration of many different paths, religions and beliefs. The daughter of a Muslim father and Catholic mother, Patricia grew up in Iran and later came to the United States, where she began her quest to find God "outside the box". From rebirthing to shamanism,Hinduism to metaphysics, I felt like I was reliving my own spiritual journey. Patricia explores many concepts and ideas in her book, such as synchronicity, reincarnation, and sacred contracts. I was never bored. In fact, I didn't want the book to end. I'm now looking forward to her next book

Deepak Chopra: The Third Jesus: The Christ We Cannot IgnoreThe Jesus that Chopra presents to us is a teacher of God consciousness and a walking example of one who lived in this state of consciousness. I most resonate with this Jesus and even those who do not see themselves as Christians will be inspired and fed by the teachings of Jesus as they are presented by Chopra.

Elizabeth Gilbert: Eat Pray LoveA delightful memoir about Gilbert's one-year sabbatical following her divorce. She seeks to find pleasure again in Italy, to find God in an ashram in India, and balance in Indonesia learning from an old medicine man. A spiritual journey (and, in the end, a love story) that is fun, humorous and wonderfully told.

Byron Katie: Loving What IsThis book gives you the key to unlocking the door that can lead to a life of inner peace and joy. If everyone in the world would read this book there would be no more war.

Charles Fillmore: Metaphysical Bible DictionaryBased on the teachings of Jesus Christ, this book provides the esoteric meanings of words, names and places. A valuable resource for all Bible students who want to delve into metaphysical interpretation of scripture.

Kermit's Tips for Handling Difficult People

I have had a thing about frogs, ever since I heard how the word "frog" stands for Fully Rely On God. But I'm also a fan of Kermit the Frog. My sister-in-law gave me a book for Christmas entitled: Before You Leap: A Frog's-Eye View of Life's Greatest Lessons written, of course, by Kermit. Today, I happened to turn to the page Kermit wrote on handling difficult people. I thought I'd share a bit of his wisdom on how to handle those people that push your buttons.

Be Agreeable. Remember, if you agree to go get them chocolate, chances are they'll be a lot more agreeable too. Even if it's only temporary, it's worth the effort.

Be Firm, But Flexible. Never give in on issues that are really important to you. But be fexible on the little things.

Show Your True Feelings. If someone is getting you hot under the collar, loosen your collar so that some steam seeps out. This may not make them less disagreeable, but the vapors are really great for you complexion.

Dont Make Yourself A Target. I always thought that being green and blending in with things was a bad thing, but then I realized that it's great camouflage when some irate individual is looking to make my life miserable.

Be Relentlessly Upbeat. If there's one thing I've learned from dealing with Miss Piggy, it's that "It is far better to be upbeat than to be beat up." The best defense is to not be offensive. So I always keep a smile on my face, a hop in my step and a car running just outside the door.

Embrace Other Points of View. So the world you live in and the folks around you are crazy. It may not be normal, but this is your life, so make yourself at home and go a little crazy too.

Tap Into Your Inner Best Self. It's natural to get upset when someone is being difficult. But I find that when you fight fire with fire, you tend to get burned. So I try to visualize my most peaceful self, the kind and wonderful Kermit who resides inside of me. And when I've successfully visualized this perfect frog, I send him out to deal with the problem.

Give Gifts. When all else fails, give them stuff. On the other hand, this rewards bad behavior. On the other hand, it's far better to give than to receive--particularly when you're giving a gift and you're receiving a fist.

Kermit ends by saying "Do your best and treat others well, and I guarantee the best is yet to come." Makes sense to me. Thanks, Kermit.

I have selected photographs that make me smile and brighten my day. I hope they will do that for you as well. Click on the photos to see an enlarged view. I invite you to visit often and see what I add to my collection.